Systems and methods for wlan network selection

ABSTRACT

Methods, systems, and devices for network selection are disclosed herein. User equipment (UE) includes a communication component, a rules component, and a network selection component. The communication component may be configured to communicate over a 3GPP network and a non-cellular network. The rules component may be configured to store an access network discovery and selection function (ANDSF) management object (MO) that includes wireless local area network (WLAN) selection policies for network selection on the UE. The WLAN selection policies may include interworking WLAN (I-WLAN) policies and Hotspot 2.0 (HS2.0) parameters. The network selection component is configured to select an available WLAN based on the ANDSF MO.

RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/126,900, filed Dec. 17, 2013, which claims the benefit ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2013/062384, filed Sep. 27, 2013,which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/768,330, filed Feb. 22, 2013, each of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to wireless local area network (WLAN)network selection.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a communication systemconsistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating user equipment (UE) and anaccess network detection and selection function (ANDSF) server fornetwork selection consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an ANDSF management object (MO)consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for networkselection consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating another method for networkselection consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating yet another method fornetwork selection consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for synchronizingnetwork selection rules consistent with embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a mobile device consistent withembodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A detailed description of systems and methods consistent withembodiments of the present disclosure is provided below. While severalembodiments are described, it should be understood that disclosure isnot limited to any one embodiment, but instead encompasses numerousalternatives, modifications, and equivalents. In addition, whilenumerous specific details are set forth in the following description inorder to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosedherein, some embodiments can be practiced without some or all of thesedetails. Moreover, for the purpose of clarity, certain technicalmaterial that is known in the related art has not been described indetail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure.

Wireless mobile communication technology uses various standards andprotocols to transmit data between a base station and a wireless mobiledevice. Wireless communication system standards and protocols caninclude the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) long termevolution (LTE); the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers(IEEE) 802.16 standard, which is commonly known to industry groups asWiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access); and the IEEE802.11 standard, which is commonly known to industry groups as Wi-Fi. In3GPP radio access networks (RANs) in LTE systems, the base station caninclude Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN)Node Bs (also commonly denoted as evolved Node Bs, enhanced Node Bs,eNodeBs, or eNBs) and/or Radio Network Controllers (RNCs) in an E-UTRAN,which communicate with a wireless communication device, known as userequipment (UE).

Common goals in cellular wireless networks (such as 3GPP networks)include efficient use of licensed bandwidth as well as increasedcoverage and throughput. One way to improve performance with respect tothese goals is through the offloading of communication flows for a UE orother wireless mobile device to other available networks. For example,traffic may be offloaded to wireless local area network (WLAN) or othernetworks, such as Wi-Fi networks, WiMAX networks, or the like. Theseother networks may provide coverage where 3GPP networks, or othercellular networks, are not available, such as in coverage gaps orindoors. Additionally, because some of the traffic is offloaded toanother network, bandwidth on the 3GPP network may be freed up for useby other devices and the load on the 3GPP network may be reduced. In oneembodiment, other networks may be capable of providing greater datarates than the 3GPP network and may result in better throughput for theUE and/or better quality of service.

Offloading to Wi-Fi and/or Wi-MAX networks can significantly improvedata rates and quality of service in 3GPP networks, in part becausenetworks belonging to other entities may be used. For example, Wi-Finetworks maintained or owned by a hotel, store, or other venue may beused to route 3GPP traffic. This may provide much needed coverage inlocations where 3GPP coverage may not be available. For example,interior spaces within buildings often have poor 3GPP reception. In somesituations, providers of Wi-Fi or WiMAX networks can enter licenses withtelecommunication companies, individuals, or other entities to providecommunication services for 3GPP (or other cellular service) in order tobring in alternate forms of income.

In order to route traffic over alternate networks, a UE must select oneor more available networks over which to route traffic. However, WLANnetwork selection in dual mode 3GPP compatible devices can result inconflicting sets of rules. Specifically, WLAN network selection may bebased on information provided in an interworking WLAN (I-WLAN)management object (MO) specified in 3GPP Technical Specification (TS)24.235 version 11.1.0 (2012-11-16), information provided in the accessnetwork discovery and selection function (ANDSF) MO specified in 3GPP TS24.312 version 11.4.0 (Oct. 8, 2012), and/or information in thesubscription MO as defined by the Wi-Fi Alliance (WFA) Hotspot 2.0(HS2.0) Release 2 specifications, all of which are available to thepublic. For example, both the I-WLAN MO and the ANDSF MO may includeoperator controlled lists, user preferred lists, and home public landmobile network (HPLMN) controlled lists of preferred networks. Thepreferred networks may include preferred public land mobile networks(PLMNs) or service set identifiers (SSIDs) for preferred accessnetworks. Since some of the information for WLAN network selectionoverlaps between the different MOs, conflicts and/or confusion canresult in how to consistently select a WLAN access network.

Additional issues include complications regarding which procedures toapply during WLAN network selection. For example, the I-WLAN proceduresmay be applicable to initial network selection at I-WLAN UE switch onand following recovery from lack of WLAN radio coverage. However, it'snot clear if these procedures are applicable during other cases whichtrigger WLAN network selection. Lack of a consistent set of procedureswhich can be applied for WLAN network selection across different triggerconditions results in unneeded complication.

Further issues include that the I-WLAN procedures fail to take intoaccount rich sets of ANDSF and HS2.0 policies for intelligent WLANnetwork selection. Furthermore, if active policies governing WLANnetwork selection are changed, the I-WLAN procedures are not designed toreconsider new WLAN access networks and additional trigger points forI-WLAN network selection need to be defined.

The present application discloses a single MO that includes consolidatedWLAN network selection information within the single MO, such as withinthe ANDSF MO. For example, the ANDSF MO may be enhanced to include allinformation for network selection, including WLAN network selection, toeliminate overlap and potential conflict of information. Theconsolidation of this information may simplify network selection for theUE, network, and/or users of the UE. In one embodiment, the ANDSF MO isenhanced to include policies parameters specified in HS2.0specifications such as time of day, location, venue, access networktype, load on network, or the like for intelligent WLAN networkselection.

The present application also discloses network selection proceduresbased on an ANDSF MO that includes the consolidated information. In oneembodiment, the network selection procedure is independent of I-WLANprocedures as described in 3GPP TS 23.234 and 3GPP TS 24.234. Forexample, the I-WLAN procedures as described may not be used. Networkselection independent of the I-WLAN MO and/or the procedures may enableoperators that do not desire to deploy I-WLAN and provide I-WLANconfiguration information to the UEs to still provide information to theUE to perform the selection of the appropriate PLMN or service provider.In one embodiment, the solution designed for WLAN network selection maywork independently of the mechanisms used to gain connectivity to the3GPP core network (such as the S2a, S2b, and/or S2c interfaces).

In one embodiment, a UE includes a communication component, a rulescomponent, and a network selection component. The communicationcomponent may be configured to communicate over a 3GPP network and anon-cellular network. The rules component may be configured to store anANDSF MO that includes WLAN selection policies for network selection onthe UE. The WLAN selection policies may include I-WLAN policies andaccess network query protocol (ANQP) parameters. The network selectioncomponent is configured to select an available WLAN based on the ANDSFMO.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system 100 forproviding wireless communication services to a UE 102 or other mobilewireless device. The system 100 includes a plurality of RANs 104-112through which the UE 102 may access IP services 114 or other dataservices, such as voice services or the Internet. Specifically, thesystem 100 includes a global system for mobile communications (GSM)enhanced data rates for GSM evolution (EDGE) RAN (GERAN) 104, a UTRAN106, and an E-UTRAN 108, which provide access to communication servicesthrough a core network 116.

The system 100 also includes trusted and untrusted Wi-Fi RANs 110 and aWiMAX RAN 112, which connect to the core network 116 via a wirelessaccess gateway (WAG) 118, a trusted WAG (TWAG) 120, and an accessservice network gateway (ASN-GW) 122, respectively. The Wi-Fi RANs 110may include WLANs that implement 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac,and/or any other 802.11 radio access technology (RAT). The WiMAX RAN 112may implement any version of the 802.16 RAT (e.g. 802.16e or other802.16 version). Each of the RANs 104-112 includes one or more basestations or other infrastructure for wirelessly communicating with theUE 102 and providing access to communication services. For example, theE-UTRAN 108 includes one or more eNBs, which are configured towirelessly communicate with the UE 102.

The core network 116 includes a serving gateway (SGW) 124, a packet datanetwork (PDN) gateway (PGW) 126, an ANDSF server 128, and an enhancedpacket data gateway ePDG 130. The PGW 126 is connected to the WAG 118via the ePDG 130 using the S2b interface (for the case of untrustedaccess) and to the TWAG 120 and ASN-GW 122 using the S2a interface (forthe case of trusted access). In one embodiment, the core network 116 mayinclude an evolved packet core (EPC). One of skill in the art willrecognize that numerous other components and functions may be includedor implemented in the core network 116.

The ANDSF server 128 is configured to assist the UE 102 to discover andconnect to non-3GPP access networks, such as the Wi-Fi RAN 110 and/orthe WiMAX RAN 112. The ANDSF server 128 stores an ANDSF MO that includespolicies for selecting a 3GPP or an alternative access network, such asa WLAN access network. Policies within the ANDSF MO may indicate whenconnection to alternative networks is appropriate and/or when trafficoffloading should be performed. In one embodiment, a cell of a cellularnetwork (such as a cell of one of the 3GPP RANs 104, 106, 108) may havea corresponding list of Wi-Fi hotspots or WiMAX base stations in thesame area. The UE 102 may use this list to connect to one of theavailable Wi-Fi hotspots or WiMAX base stations and/or route trafficover these connections.

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating example components ofthe UE 102. The UE 102, as depicted, includes a communication component202, a rules component 204, a discovery component 206, and networkselection component 208. The components 202-208 are given by way ofexample only. In some embodiments, additional or fewer components may beincluded. In fact, some embodiments may include only one or anycombination of two or more of the illustrated components 202, 204, 206,208.

The communication component 202 is configured to wirelessly communicatewith other devices. In one embodiment, the communication component 202may be configured to communicate data between the UE 102 and one or morebase stations. For example, the communication component 202 may includea transceiver and/or an antenna for sending and receiving wirelesssignals to an eNB or other base station. In one embodiment, thecommunication component 202 allows the UE 102 to operate as a dual modedevice. For example, the communication component 202 may include two ormore radios configured to selectively or simultaneously communicateusing two or more different communication standards. In one embodiment,the communication component 202 may be configured to communicate over acellular network and/or a non-cellular network (such as a WLAN). Examplenetwork technologies include 3GPP, WiMAX, and Wi-Fi. According to oneembodiment, the communication component 202 is configured to communicatedata on behalf of the other components 204-208. For example, thecommunication component 202 may connect to or communicate data over anetwork selected by the network selection component 208.

The rules component 204 is configured to store rules or a set of rulesfor network selection. For example, the rules may include networkselection policies such as WLAN network selection policies. In oneembodiment, the rules component 204 stores an MO that includes policiesand parameters controlling network selection. In one embodiment, the MOincludes an ANDSF MO or any other MO that includes network selectionpolicies or other rules or parameters for network selection.

In one embodiment, the rules component 204 stores an MO that includesconsolidated network selection rules. For example, the MO may includeall information required for WLAN network selection without referencingpolicies or parameters in another MO. In one embodiment, the ANDSF MOmay be enhanced to include parameters and policies located or duplicatedin other MOs. As an example the policy elements could be added in theinter-system routing policy (ISRP) and inter-system mobility policy(ISMP) sub-trees as extensions to the prioritized access descriptionsfor the case where the access technology is WLAN or in a new sub-tree,e.g. called a WLAN selection policy (WLANSP), in the ANDSF MO. Theoperator preferred list of WLAN service providers, such as PLMNs andwork station identifiers (WSIDs), may be added under access technologyspecific branches.

In one embodiment, the ANDSF MO is enhanced to include a WLANSP nodeunder which the network selection policies and parameters may beconsolidated. For example, the WLANSP node may form the root of a WLANSPsub-tree in the MO separate from an ISMP and an ISRP. Similarly, anotherMO may be enhanced to include the consolidated network selectionpolicies or a new WLANSP MO may be created including the consolidatedpolicies and parameters. By consolidating the WLAN network selectionpolicy elements and related information in a single MO, the overlap andpotential conflicts in information can be resolved.

In one embodiment, the MO includes WLAN selection policies based onparameters of the HS2.0 Release 2 specification. In one embodiment, theHS2.0 specifications include or reference WLAN network selectionpolicies or parameters as defined in the Subscription MO. In oneembodiment, 3GPP may define additional WLAN network selection policiesfor dual mode devices based on ANQP parameters or additional informationincluded in HS2.0 specifications. For example, the selection policiesmay be based on parameters that can be discovered from an HS2.0 accessnetwork. The ANQP may include policies and procedures which may be usedby a UE to discover information about a Wi-Fi hotspot, such asinformation about the hotspot's operator, roaming partners, load, or thelike. In one embodiment, the ANDSF MO as defined in TS 24.312 isenhanced to incorporate these additional policies based on HS2.0specifications. For example, the WLAN network selection policies may bebased on HS2.0 parameters such as a venue parameter, an access networktype parameter, a backhaul load parameter, or any other policy elementsor parameters in the HS2.0 specifications.

In one embodiment, the MO with consolidated network selection policiesincludes all I-WLAN policy parameters. The I-WLAN MO as defined in 3GPPTS 24.235 specifies policies for WLAN network selection. For example,the I-WLAN MO may define a home operator network ID, such as an SSID.Additionally, the I-WLAN MO may include operator controlled roamingpartner priority lists, which may include realms, OUIs, SSIDs, or otheridentifiers. In one embodiment, a single MO, such as the ANDSF MO, maybe enhanced to include these parameters from the I-WLAN MO.

In one embodiment, the MO includes preferences for specific serviceproviders. The preferences for specific service providers may indicatespecific networks or may indicate organizations or other entities thatoperate the networks. For example, the MO may include lists of preferredaccess networks based on SSIDs. Additionally or alternatively, the MOmay include lists of preferred access networks based on network accessidentifier (NAI) realms, organizationally unique identifiers (OUIs),and/or other identifiers that identify a roaming consortium or serviceprovider. For example, the list of preferred access networks may includeany type of identifier that identifies the network as associated with anoperator, a service provider, or other organization or group. In oneembodiment, inclusion of realms and/or OUIs may allow a preferrednetwork to be selected based on these identifiers and without a specificSSID for the preferred network. For example, each WLAN may have its ownspecific and/or unique identifier while the realms, OUIs, or otheridentifiers may be common to a plurality of networks. Thus, a networkmay be identified as a preferred network simply based on the group ofnetworks to which it belongs or the service providers through which itmay provide access.

In one embodiment, the preferences for specific service providers may beindicated in one or more lists. In one embodiment, an operatorcontrolled list may be provisioned within an MO by an ANDSF server 128or other network infrastructure component specifying preferred networksfor the operator (such as the operator of a 3GPP network for which theUE 102 is activated). In one embodiment, the lists may include a usercontrolled list for networks that the user prefers. The user preferrednetworks may include networks to which a user has allowed the UE 102 toconnect as well as service providers (which can be identified based on acorresponding OUI or realm) for which the user has a subscription. Inone embodiment, the lists may include an HPLMN controlled listindicating preferences of the HPLMN for which the UE 102 is activated.The user controlled lists, operator controlled lists, and/or HPLMNcontrolled lists may include preferred WLAN service providers (such asPLMNs) or WSIDs.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an ANDSF MO 300 that includesconsolidated WLAN network selection policies and parameters. In oneembodiment, an ANDSF MO 300 includes preferences in an XML format. Forexample, the policies and preferences may be organized in a branch andleaf structure. In one embodiment, each branch or leaf node may includevalues indicating preferences or policies for network selection. TheANDSF MO 300 includes a WLANSP? node 302, a preferred service providerlist (PSPL)? node 304, and a PreferVplmnWlans? node 306. Only a portionof the ANDSF MO 300 is depicted for clarity of illustration anddiscussion. Although FIG. 3 illustrates WLAN selection policies andparameters in the ANDSF MO 300, any of the teaching discussed herein maybe applied to other MOs, rule sets, or to a newly created MO.

The WLANSP? node 302 may form a root node of a WLANSP sub-tree of theANDSF MO 302. For example, the 3GPP-defined policies for WLAN networkselection may be organized within the WLANSP sub-tree in the ANDSF MO,separate from ISMP and ISRP. In one embodiment, the ISMP node, ISRPnode, and internal sub-nodes remain unchanged but may include aprioritized list of 3GPP and WLAN access networks. In anotherembodiment, the policies may be distributed in the ISRP and ISMPsub-trees as extensions to the prioritized access descriptions for thecase where the access network is a WLAN. In one embodiment, a selectionof an active rule requires interaction between WLANSP, ISMP, and theISRP nodes and sub-trees.

The WLANSP? sub tree may include a rules set that includes one or moreWLANSP rules. In one embodiment, each WLANSP rule may specify a priorityvalue, a set of validity conditions, and/or a list of preferred WLANattributes. For example, the depicted WLANSP? node 302 includessub-nodes 308, 310, 312 and 314 which may include leaf or branch nodesthat specify values for the conditions, priorities, and/or preferredWLAN attributes of a rule. The ValidityArea? node 308 and TimeOfDay?node 310 may indicate validity conditions for when the rule should beapplied. For example, the ValidityArea? node 308 or sub-nodes may definea geographical region in which the rule is valid and the TimeOfDay? node310 or sub-nodes may define a time of day during which the rule isvalid. The Priority node 312 may indicate a priority for the rule. Forexample, the Priority node 312 may include a value indicating a relativepriority of the rule as compared to other rules. For example, rules witha higher priority may, if valid, be applied while lower priority rulesmay not be applied.

The PreferredWlans node 314 may include a list of preferred WLANattributes for the rule. For example, the PreferredWlans node 314 mayinclude a plurality of sub-nodes indicating one or more supportedrealms, a basic service set (BSS) load, one or more SSIDs, one or moreOUIs, or the like. In one embodiment, the use of realms, OUIs,RoamingConsoriumOIs or the like allows for reduced maintenance ofpreferred WLAN lists. For example, the preferred WLAN policies may bebased on realms and/or OUIs to indicate for example that “WLANs thatinterwork with Realm=PartnerX.com have the highest access priority”. TheUE 102 may use the realms and/or OUIs as an alternative way (instead ofusing SSID) to identify and prioritize the discovered WLAN accessnetworks. In one embodiment, the realms, OUIs or other identifiers aresupported by HS2.0 compliant WLAN access networks.

In one embodiment, a WLANSP rule or other parameter in the WLANSPsub-tree may include parameters or policies from the HS2.0 specification(such as policies from the Subscription MO). In one embodiment, a WLANSPsub-tree or rule within the sub-tree may be based on one or more of aPreferredRoamingPartnerList parameter, a PreferredRoamingPartnerListparameter, a MinimumBackhaulThreshold parameter, aMinimumBackhaulAvailableBandwidthThreshold parameter, a MaximumBSSLoadparameter, a BSSLoadThreshold parameter, a SPExclusionList parameter, aRequiredProtoPortTuple parameter, or any other HS2.0 parameter or node.To address location related information, policies related to WLAN accessnetwork type, venue information and connection capability may beincluded in the ANDSF MO. The connection capabilities of the WLANnetwork may be advertised to proximal UE 102. In one embodiment, a UE102 may query a WLAN access network to obtain values for one or more ofthe above parameters corresponding to the WLAN access network. TheWLANSP sub-tree may also include 3GPP specific sub-nodes which specifyrequirements for WLAN selection.

The PSPL? node include sub-nodes and/or information including a list ofservice providers preferred by the home operator. These serviceproviders may support authentication, authorization, and accounting(AAA) interworking with the HPLMN and can be used to authenticate the UEwith the extensible authentication protocol method for universal mobiletelecommunication system (UMTS) authentication and key agreement(EAP-AKA). The UE 102 uses the PSPL node 304 and/or sub-nodes toidentify whether a 3GPP service provider is an equivalent HPLMN or a3GPP roaming partner. The PSPL node 304 and/or sub-nodes may alsocontain a policy whether or not a UE prefers the 3GPP registered PLMN(RPLMN) also for WLAN access.

The PreferVplmnWlans node 306 and/or sub-nodes may contain a list ofPLMNs. In one embodiment, when the UE 102 is roaming to one of thesePLMNs, the UE 102 is configured to prefer WLAN access networks policiesprovided by this visited PLMN (VPLMN) over the WLANs provided by theHPLMN. When the UE 102 is roaming to any other PLMN, the UE 102 may beconfigured to prefer WLAN access networks policies provided by theHPLMN.

Returning to FIG. 2, the discovery component 206 is configured todiscover a set of available WLAN access networks. In one embodiment, thediscovery component 206 discovers access networks using a radio orantenna of the communication component 202. In one embodiment, thediscovery component 206 discovers the WLAN access networks based onSSIDs, realms, OUIs, or other identifiers within an MO or rule setstored by the rules component 204. In one embodiment, the discoverycomponent 206 discovers WLAN access networks that are within range ofthe UE 102 and that meet one or more restrictions of the ANDSF MO. Forexample, the discovery component 206 may search for SSIDs, realms, OUIsor other identifiers based on a current geographical location of the UE102, time of day, or any other parameters specified by the ANDSF MO 300.

The discovery component 206 may discover parameters, capabilities, orthe like of a WLAN network based on HS2.0 specifications. For example,the discovery component 206 may discover roaming relationships, loads ona specific WLAN access network, or the like. Any of the parameters ofthe HS2.0 may be discovered by the discovery component 206. In oneembodiment, the discovery component 206 may query a proximal WLAN accessnetwork using ANQP to discover parameters listed within the ANDSF MO300. For example, based on information in IEEE 802.11 beacons and usingANQP procedures, the discovery component 206 discovers theRoamingConsortiums lists and/or NAI Realm lists which identify serviceproviders whose services can be accessed using the WLAN access networkand whose credentials can be used for authentication. In one embodiment,the discovery component 206 compiles a list of available WLAN accessnetworks and/or associated parameters and information for evaluationduring network and/or service provider selection.

The network selection component 208 is configured to select an availableWLAN access network based on WLAN selection policies. For example, thenetwork selection component 208 may select a WLAN network based on oneor more of the rules and policies within the ANDSF MO, such as the ANDSFMO 300 of FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the WLAN network selection isdriven by the HPLMN. For example, in roaming scenarios the home ANDSFpolicies may take precedence over visited ANDSF policies. In oneembodiment, this preference for HPLMN or VPLMN policies can bedetermined based on reference to the PreferVplmnWlans? node 306 of theANDSF MO 300. The preference for HPLMN or VPLMN can be indicated by anoperator, user, or the HPLMN, for example.

In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 determines one ormore currently valid rules or policies. For example, the networkselection component 206 of the UE 102 may evaluate the conditions (suchas a location or time condition) to determine whether a rule in theWLANSP? node 302 branch, or any other location within an MO, is valid.In one embodiment, the network selection component 206 determines whichWLANSP rules are valid and selects one or more of these valid rules toapply. For example, rules with the highest priority (which may beindicated by the Priority node 312) may be applied to a list of WLANaccess networks discovered by the discovery component 204.

In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 may prioritize alist of available WLAN access networks based on an active WLANSP rule.For example, WLAN access networks that better match the WLANSP rule ormeet more requirements of the active WLANSP rule may be listed with ahigher priority than WLAN access networks which do not meet therequirements. In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 mayprioritize the list of available WLAN access networks based on HS2.0parameters. For example, the network selection component may prioritizethe WLANs based on a venue, a network load, an available backhaulbandwidth, and a lists of preferred SSIDs, OUIs, realms, or the like.

The network selection component 208 may prioritize the list based onservice providers that are available on each of the available accessnetworks. In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 mayprioritize the list using HS2.0 or other parameters and then comparesthe list of available WLANs with the preferred WLANs based on WLANSPrules and selects the WLAN with the highest priority. For example, thenetwork selection component 208 may compare a list of preferred networksto the list of available networks. In one embodiment, a user controlledlist, operator controlled list, HPLMN controlled list or other list ofpreferred service providers may be used to prioritize the networks. Theservice provider policies may be located within an MO (such as the ANDSFMO) and/or within a universal subscriber identity module (USIM) such asa USIM card. In one embodiment, if there are multiple WLANs with thesame highest priority, the network selection component 208 selects theWLAN that interworks with the most preferred service provider in thePSPL sub tree (under the PSPL? node 304 of FIG. 3).

The network selection component 208 may select a most preferred WLANaccess network. For example, the network selection component 208 mayselect an access network with a highest priority from the prioritizedlist of networks. In one embodiment, a network is selected based onnetwork attributes other than service providers that are availablethrough a network. For example, the network selection component 208 mayselect an WLAN access network based on HS2.0 parameters, preferrednetworks lists, or the like and then select a service provider from theavailable service providers corresponding to the selected WLAN accessnetwork. In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 may takeHS2.0 parameters and service providers into account when prioritizingthe network and then select a highest priority network. The networkselection component 208 may initiate authorization with a serviceprovider corresponding to the selected network and the communicationcomponent 202 may route traffic flows over the selected network usingthe selected service provider.

In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 may select a WLANnetwork based on ISRP and/or ISMP policies within the ANDSF MO. Forexample, the network selection component 208 may prioritize a list ofavailable access networks using the WLANSP sub-tree of the ANDSF MO andthen apply the ISRP and/or ISMP in order to make a network selection. Inone embodiment, the ISRP and/or ISMP area applied after an initialnetwork selection or are used to determine what traffic is routed overthe selected network.

In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 is configured toselect a WLAN access network during initial network selection. Forexample, the network selection component 208 may not need to wait untila PLMN is selected using a 3GPP communication standard in order toselect a WLAN. In one embodiment, the WLAN may be used to communicatetraffic flows that are normally directed over a 3GPP network (such asvoice traffic flows or control traffic) when a 3GPP network isunavailable. In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 mayuse the ANDSF MO to select the access network during initial networkselection. According to one embodiment, the network selection proceduresperformed by the network selection component 208 utilizes WLAN MOsettings prior to or during WLAN network selection. This may allow thepreferences specified in the ANDSF rules to initially select or reselecta network and/or trigger the UE to initially select or to reselectanother WLAN access network (such as a network in a different PLMN).

The ANDSF server 128 is configured to store and provide networkselection and/or routing rules to the UE 102. In one embodiment, theANDSF server 128 is configured to synchronize an ANDSF MO with the UE102 at activation or in a dynamic manner. In one embodiment, the ANDSFserver 128 stores an ANDSF MO (such as the ANDSF MO 300 of FIG. 3)indicating network selection rules for a UE 102. In one embodiment, theANDSF server 128 may store multiple ANDSF MOs for different UEs 102and/or for different types of UEs 102. The ANDSF MO may include a WLANselection policy or other rules or policies for controlling networkselection. The ANDSF MO may be open mobile alliance (OMA) devicemanagement (DM) compliant.

In one embodiment, the ANDSF server 128 is configured to establishcommunication with a UE 102. For example, the ANDSF server 128 mayreceive a request from a UE 102 to connect and update an MO for the UE102. In one embodiment, the UE 102 may request updating of the MO inresponse to the ANDSF server 128 indicating that the MO has changed.

The ANDSF server 128 may synchronize at least a portion of the ANDSF MOwith the UE 102. For example, the ANDSF server 128 may synchronize atleast a portion of the MO that includes a WLANSP branch of the MO. Inone embodiment, the ANDSF server 128 may only provide portions of theANDSF MO that are different from an ANDSF MO stored by the UE 102. Inone embodiment, the ANDSF MO includes network selection rules thatinclude identifiers indicating service provider preferences. Forexample, the service provider preferences may include an SSID, an OUI,an NAI realm, a roaming consortium, or any other service provideridentifier.

Example WLAN Selection Based on WLANSP Rules Within the ANDSF MO

Following is an example implementation of network selection policies andparameters, according to one embodiment. One of skill in the art willrecognize that numerous variations and embodiments are within the scopeof the present disclosure and are not limited to this example.

This example discloses an ANDSF MO that includes a set of rules anddescribes how a UE uses selects a most preferred WLAN access networkbased on the rules. The ANDSF MO includes a number of nodes and/orinformation that contain the rules and selection policies. A PSPL nodeis included in the ANDSF MO that contains a list of service providerspreferred by the home operator. These service providers support AAAinterworking with the HPLMN and can be used to authenticate the UE withEAP-AKA. In one embodiment, this node is included only by the homeANDSF. A PreferVplmnWlans node is included in the ANDSF MO that cancontain a list of PLMNs. When the UE 102 is roaming to one of thesePLMNs, the UE is configured to prefer WLAN access networks policiesprovided by the VPLMN over the WLANs provided by the HPLMN. When the UEis roaming to any other PLMN, the UE is configured to prefer WLAN accessnetworks policies provided by the HPLMN. A WLANSP node is include in theANDSF MO. This node includes one or more WLANSP rules, each onespecifying a priority value, a set of validity conditions and list of apreferred WLAN attributes (such as supported realms, BSS load, SSIDs,OUIs, etc.). The UE determines which WLANSP rules are valid and selectsone of these valid rules to apply. The applied WLANSP rule is used bythe UE to select the most preferred WLAN access network.

The Policy node (ISMP) in the ANDSF MO remains unchanged and includes aprioritized list of 3GPP and WLAN access networks, e.g.: WLAN-A priority1, 3GPP priority 2, WLAN-B priority 3. This prioritized list can be usedto define the relative priority of 3GPP access with respect to WLANaccess or with respect to certain WLAN access networks. If theprioritized list of access networks in an ISMP rule include only WLANaccess networks, this list is not used since WLAN selection is based onWLANSP only. The ISRP node and the internal “ForFlowBased”,“ForServiceBased” and “ForNonSeamlessOffload” nodes in the ANDSF MOremain unchanged. So, the ISRP rules for IP flow mobility (IFOM) and formultiple-access PDN connectivity (MAPCON) can still include aprioritized list of 3GPP and WLAN access networks, e.g.: WLAN-A priority1, 3GPP priority 2, WLAN-B priority 3. This prioritized list can be usedto define the relative priority of 3GPP access with respect to WLANaccess or with respect to certain WLAN access networks.

If the prioritized list of access networks in an ISRP for IFOM rule orin an ISRP for MAPCON rule include only WLAN access networks, this listis not used for WLAN selection since WLAN selection is based on WLANSPonly. The list is still used by the UE to make IP traffic routingdecisions. The prioritized list of access networks in an ISRP fornon-seamless WLAN offloading (NSWO) rule is not used since WLANselection is based on WLANSP only. The list is still used by the UE tomake IP traffic routing decisions. It is assumed that the activeISMP/ISRP rule in the UE can always be used to determine the relativepriority of the most preferred WLAN (selected based on the active WLANSPrule) over 3GPP access.

A UE may be provisioned with multiple valid ISMP, ISRP and WLANSP rules.Out of all these valid rules the UE selects and applies only two rules:one WLANSP rule and either one ISMP or one ISRP rule. A rule applied bythe UE is called an “active” rule. Specifically, a UE that cannotsimultaneously route IP traffic over multiple radio accesses selects anactive ISMP rule and an active WLANSP rule while a UE that cansimultaneously route IP traffic over multiple radio accesses selects anactive ISRP rule and an active WLANSP rule.

When the UE is not roaming, it selects the active ISMP/ISRP rule and theactive WLANSP rule to apply from the valid rules provided by the HPLMNbased on the individual priorities of these rules (or based on othercriteria). For example, the highest priority valid WLANSP rule isselected as the active WLANSP rule.

When the UE is roaming, it may have valid rules from both HPLMN andVPLMN. In this case, the UE is configured to either prefer WLAN accessnetworks policies provided by the HPLMN or not. This configuration canbe done either by the user or by the home ANDSF via the PreferVplmnWlansnode. User configuration takes precedence over the home ANDSFconfiguration. If the UE is configured not to prefer WLAN access networkpolicies provided by the HPLMN (i.e. the VPLMN to which the UE isregistered is included in the PreferVplmnWlans node), then the UEselects the active WLANSP rule and the active ISMP/ISRP rule from thevalid rules provided by the VPLMN. If the UE is configured to preferWLAN access networks policies provided by the HPLMN (i.e. the VPLMN towhich the UE is registered is not included in the PreferVplmnWlansnode), then the UE checks the WLANSP rule provided by the HPLMN anddetermines if any of the WLAN access networks in this rule areavailable. If at least one of these WLAN access networks is available,or becomes available, then the UE selects/reselects the active WLANSPrule and the active ISMP/ISRP rule from the valid rules provided by theHPLMN (e.g. based on their priority values). If none of these WLANaccess networks is available, then the UE selects the active WLANSP ruleand the active ISMP/ISRP rule from the valid rules provided by theVPLMN.

During power-up while UE has not registered to any PLMN, the UEconsiders the WLANSP rules provided by the HPLMN as valid and selects anactive WLANSP rule as described above (e.g. the one with the highestpriority). Thus during power-up the UE can select a WLAN network basedon the WLANSP rules provided by HPLMN.

After the UE selects an active ISMP/ISRP rule and an active WLANSP ruleas described above, the active rules may interact to select a network.If the UE selects an active ISMP rule because it cannot simultaneouslyroute IP traffic over multiple radio accesses, the UE uses the activeISMP rule to determine if EPC connectivity is preferred over WLAN accessor over 3GPP access. If EPC connectivity is preferred over WLAN access(i.e. the highest priority access in the active ISMP rule corresponds toWLAN access technology), the UE uses the active WLANSP rule to determinethe most preferred available WLAN access network.

If the most preferred available WLAN access network has higher prioritythan 3GPP access (according to the prioritized accesses in the activeISMP rule), then the UE connects to EPC over the most preferredavailable WLAN access network. Otherwise, the UE connects to EPC over3GPP access. For example, if the prioritized access networks in theactive ISMP rule are the WLAN-A priority 1, 3GPP priority 2, WLAN-Bpriority 3, then the UE determines that EPC connectivity is preferredover WLAN access because a WLAN access network (WLAN-A) has higherpriority than 3GPP access. Subsequently, the UE uses the active WLANSPrule to determine the most preferred available WLAN access network. Ifthe most preferred available WLAN access network has lower priority than3GPP access (e.g. WLAN-B), then the UE connects to EPC over 3GPP access.If the most preferred available WLAN access network has higher prioritythan 3GPP access (e.g. WLAN-A), then the UE connects to EPC over mostpreferred available WLAN access network.

If the UE selects an active ISRP rule because it can simultaneouslyroute IP traffic over multiple radio accesses, the UE uses the activeWLANSP rule to select and connect to the most preferred available WLANaccess network. If an IP flow matches an active ISRP for IFOM rule whichcontains a prioritized list of access networks, then the UE determinesif the selected WLAN access network has higher priority than 3GPP accessand routes the IP flow accordingly. For example, the prioritized accessnetworks in the active ISRP for IFOM rule are WLAN-A priority may be 1,3GPP priority 2, WLAN-B priority 3. Thus, if the UE has selected WLAN-B(or any WLAN network with lower priority than 3GPP access), it routesthe IP flow over 3GPP access. If the UE has selected WLAN-A (or any WLANnetwork with higher priority than 3GPP access), it routes the IP flowover WLAN access.

If the UE attempts a PDN connection establishment for an access pointname (APN) that matches an active ISRP for MAPCON rule and if this rulecontains a prioritized list of access networks, then the UE determinesif the selected WLAN access network has higher priority than 3GPP accessand establishes the PDN connection accordingly. For example, if theprioritized access networks in the active ISRP for MAPCON may be WLAN-Apriority 1, 3GPP priority 2, WLAN-B priority 3. Based on the foregoing,if the UE has selected WLAN-B (or any WLAN network with lower prioritythan 3GPP access), it establishes the PDN connection over 3GPP access.If the UE has selected WLAN-A (or any WLAN network with higher prioritythan 3GPP access), it establishes the PDN connection over WLAN access.If an IP flow matches an active ISRP for NSWO rule the UE routes this IPflow over the selected WLAN access network.

The UE uses the active WLANSP rule to select the most preferredavailable WLAN access network and then performs EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′authentication over this WLAN access network (if EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′authentication is needed). This WLAN selection is performed by the UEdiscovering the available WLANs and placing them in priority order basedon the active WLANSP rule. For example, the priority may result inWLAN-1 (priority 1), WLAN-4, WLAN-2 (priority 2), and WLAN-3 (priority3). Then, The UE selects the WLAN with the highest priority (bestmatch), e.g. WLAN-1. If there are multiple WLANs with the same highestpriority, the UE selects the WLAN that interworks with the mostpreferred service provider in the PSP list. Finally, forEAP-AKA//EAP-AKA′ authentication (if needed) the UE determines from thePSP list which preferred service providers interwork with the selectedWLAN and constructs a NAI that corresponds to the most preferred serviceprovider. For example, NAI=<real_of_hplmn>!<IMSI>@<real_of_PSP-A>, ifPSP-A is the most preferred service provider that interworks with theselected WLAN.

It is noted that the EAP-AKA//EAP-AKA′ authentication is only requiredwhen the UE decides to connect to the most preferred WLAN accessnetwork. The UE performs the WLAN selection based on the active WLANSPrule (as described above) without taking into account real-time eventsassociated with the active ISRP rule. The active ISRP rule is used onlyfor routing decisions and does not impact the selection or reselectionof the WLAN access network. For example, when a new IP flow in the UEmatches the traffic selector in the active ISRP rule, this event shouldnot trigger WLAN re-selection. If the conditions for WLAN selectionchange every time a new application runs or when certain IP flows aredetected, the WLAN selection in the UE will be complex and may lead tofrequent WLAN re-selections that would negatively affect the userexperience and the battery consumption. Events such as change of WLANload information, change of UE location, change of time of day may leadto WLAN (re-)selection based on the WLANSP rule.

The Preferred Service Providers List (PSPL) contains a list of 3GPPservice providers preferred by the UE's 3GPP home operator. As specifiedabove, this list is used by the UE (i) to construct a NAI when itattempts EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′ authentication over a selected WLAN accessnetwork and (ii) to select a WLAN access network when there are multipleWLANs available that best match the preferences in the active WLANSPrule. The PSPL contains 3GPP Service providers that can be identified asrealms, possibly with the domain name derived from a PLMN identifier(ID). This allows a UE to select the preferred 3GPP service provider toauthenticate with upon selecting WLAN based, among other information, onthe list of 3GPP service providers that the UE may discover from theWLAN AP, e.g. by means of HS2.0 ANQP query if the AP is HS2.0 capable.

The UE uses the PSPL to identify whether a 3GPP service provider is anequivalent HPLMN or a 3GPP roaming partner. The PSPL also contains apolicy whether or not a UE prefers the 3GPP RPLMN also for WLAN access.If the policy is set to “prefer 3GPP RPLMN” and the active ANDSF rule isprovided by the 3GPP RPLMN, the UE selects the 3GPP RPLMN (or a PLMNequivalent to 3GPP RPLMN) as the PLMN selected for WLAN access. If theactive ANDSF rule is provided by another PLMN than the current 3GPPRPLMN, or the policy is not set, the UE uses the PSPL as describedabove. The PSPL is always provided by the HPLMN through a home ANDSF orcan be statically provisioned in the UE. The UE shall ignore the PSPLinformation provided by the visited ANDSF, if any. If the UE has both anMO from the visited ANDSF and the home ANDSF, the UE uses only the PSPLof the home ANDSF MO.

Turning now to FIGS. 4-7, methods for WLAN network selection areprovided. FIG. 4 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method400 for network selection. The method 400 may be performed by a UE 102or other mobile wireless device.

The method 400 begins and a UE 102 configured to communicate over a 3GPPnetwork and a non 3GPP network is provided 402. The UE 102 may include acommunication component 202 that include two or more radios. Forexample, one radio may be configured to communicate over a 3GPP networkand another radio may be configured to communicate over a non-cellularnetwork, such as a WLAN.

A rules component 204 stores 404 an ANDSF MO that includes WLANselection policies. In one embodiment, the WLAN selection policiesinclude I-WLAN policies and ANQP parameters. For example, the I-WLANpolicies may include policies for selecting a WLAN capable of I-WLAN.The ANQP parameters may include parameters or values obtained throughANQP procedures. In one embodiment, the ANQP parameters may includeparameters or values based on the HS2.0 Release 2 specification.

A network selection component 208 selects 406 an available WLAN accessnetwork based on the WLAN selection policies of the ANDSF MO. Forexample, the network selection component 208 may select 406 the WLANbased on the ANDSF MO as discussed above. In one embodiment, the networkselection component 208 selects 406 a WLAN previous to connecting to anyPLMN. For example, the network selection procedures used by the networkselection component 208 to select 406 the WLAN access network may beperformed after boot up, during initial network selection, and/or if a3GPP access network is unavailable.

FIG. 5 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method 500 forWLAN selection. The method 500 may be performed by a UE 102 or otherwireless mobile device. The UE 102 may be configured to communicate withan eNB in a 3GPP LTE or LTE advanced LTE-A network as well as a WLAN.

The method 500 begins and a discovery component 206 discovers 502 a setof available WLAN access networks. The discovery component 206 maydiscover 502 the WLAN access networks based on a single rule set storedby the rules component 204. For example, the single rule set may includea single MO such as the ANDSF MO.

A network selection component 208 prioritizes 502 the available WLANaccess networks based on WLAN selection policies within the single ruleset. For example, a list of available WLAN access networks may beprioritized 502 based on HS2.0 parameters within the single rule set.These parameters may include location, time of day, network load, orother parameters. Any other parameters or rules discussed herein mayalso be used to prioritize 502 the WLAN access networks. For example,operator controlled, HPLMN controlled, and/or user controlled lists ofpreferred networks and/or service providers may be used by the networkselection component 208 to prioritize 502 the WLAN access networks.

The network selection component 208 selects 506 a WLAN access networkwith the highest priority. For example, the network selection component208 may select the highest priority WLAN access network after theprioritizing 504 the WLAN access networks. In one embodiment, if thereare two access networks with a same highest priority, the networkselection component 208 may select 506 the WLAN access network with amost preferred service provider.

FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method 600 forWLAN selection. The method 600 may be performed by a UE 102 or otherwireless mobile device.

The method 600 begins and the network selection component 208prioritizes 602 available WLAN access networks based on a consolidatedWLAN selection policies (within e.g., WLANSP? node 302) within a singleMO. For example, the network selection component 208 may select 602 aWLAN access network based on an ANDSF MO with consolidated networkselection policies including I-WLAN selection polices and/or HS2.0parameters. In one embodiment, the single MO may include a PSPL (e.g.,the PSPL? node 304).

In one embodiment, the network selection component 208 prioritizes 602the available WLAN access networks by comparing their attributes and/orcapabilities against the groups of selection criteria in an activeWLANSP rule. For example, the WLAN access networks that match the groupof selection criteria with the highest priority are considered as themost preferred WLANs and the WLAN access networks that match the groupof selection criteria with the second highest priority are considered asthe second most preferred WLANs, etc. The network selection component208 performs the WLAN network selection based on the active WLANSP rule.

The network selection component 208 selects 604 a highest priority WLANaccess network that interworks with a most preferred service provider ina PSPL. For example, the network selection component 208 may select 604a WLAN access network with a highest priority based on how the networkselection component 208 prioritizes 602 the available WLAN accessnetworks. If there are multiple highest priority WLAN access networks(multiple WLAN access networks with a same highest priority), then thenetwork selection component 208 selects 604 the For example, the highestpriority WLAN access network that interworks with a service providerhigher up in the PSPL, or other list. The network selection component208 may compare available service providers to a list of alternatenetwork identifiers such as realms, OUIs, roaming consortium IDs toselect 604 a highest priority service provider.

The communication component 202 authenticates 606 the UE 102 using anNAI based on the PSPL. For example, the communication component 202 mayauthenticate 606 the UE 102 with a PLMN using EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′authentication. The information for authentication may be includedwithin the PSPL. The PSPL may include a list of preferred WLANscontrolled by an HPLMN, VPLMN, or the like.

The communication component 202 communicates 608 3GPP traffic over theselected 602 WLAN access network. For example, the communicationcomponent 202 may route IP traffic over the WLAN access network.

FIG. 7 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method 700 forsynchronizing network selection rules with a UE 102. The method 700 maybe performed by an ANDSF server 128 or other network infrastructurecomponent.

The method 700 begins and the ANDSF server 128 stores 702 an ANDSF MOthat includes network selection rules for a UE 102 or other mobilewireless device. The ANDSF MO may include one or more service provideridentifiers for identifying preferred networks. In one embodiment, theANDSF MO stored 702 by the ANDSF server 128 may include rules based onrealms, OUIs, roaming consortium IDs, or other network identifiers orservice provider identifiers.

The ANDSF server 128 establishes 704 communication with a UE 102. The UE102 may include a UE 102 within a geographic area corresponding to theANDSF server 128. The ANDSF server 128 synchronizes 706 at least aportion of the ANDSF MO with the UE 102. For example, the UE 102 maystore a copy of the MO at the UE 102. The ANDSF server 128 maysynchronize 706 the ANDSF MO with the UE 102 in response to an update orchange being made to the ANDSF MO. In one embodiment, the portion of theANDSF MO synchronized with the UE 102 includes preferences for accessnetworks corresponding to a preferred service provider. The ANDSF MO mayindicate preferred services providers based on an SSID, realm, OUI, orother identifier.

FIG. 8 is an example illustration of a mobile device, such as a UE, amobile station (MS), a mobile wireless device, a mobile communicationdevice, a tablet, a handset, or another type of mobile wireless device.The mobile device can include one or more antennas configured tocommunicate with a transmission station, such as a base station (BS), aneNB, a base band unit (BBU), a remote radio head (RRH), a remote radioequipment (RRE), a relay station (RS), a radio equipment (RE), oranother type of wireless wide area network (WWAN) access point. Themobile device can be configured to communicate using at least onewireless communication standard including 3GPP LTE, WiMAX, HSPA,Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. The mobile device can communicate using separateantennas for each wireless communication standard or shared antennas formultiple wireless communication standards. The mobile device cancommunicate in a WLAN, a wireless personal area network (WPAN), and/or aWWAN.

FIG. 8 also provides an illustration of a microphone and one or morespeakers that can be used for audio input and output from the mobiledevice. The display screen may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screenor other type of display screen, such as an organic light emitting diode(OLED) display. The display screen can be configured as a touch screen.The touch screen may use capacitive, resistive, or another type of touchscreen technology. An application processor and a graphics processor canbe coupled to internal memory to provide processing and displaycapabilities. A non-volatile memory port can also be used to providedata input/output options to a user. The non-volatile memory port mayalso be used to expand the memory capabilities of the mobile device. Akeyboard may be integrated with the mobile device or wirelesslyconnected to the mobile device to provide additional user input. Avirtual keyboard may also be provided using the touch screen.

EXAMPLES

The following examples pertain to further embodiments.

Example 1 is a UE that includes a communication component, a rulescomponent, and a network selection component. The communicationcomponent is configured to communicate over a 3GPP network and anon-cellular network. The rules component is configured to store anANDSF MO that includes WLAN selection policies for network selection onthe UE. The WLAN selection policies include I-WLAN policies and HS2.0parameters. The network selection component is configured to select anavailable WLAN access network based on the WLAN selection polices of theANDSF MO.

In Example 2, the WLAN selection policies for network selection ofExample 1 can optionally include policies required for WLAN networkselection without referencing another MO.

In Example 3, the network selection component of Examples 1-2 canoptionally select the available WLAN access network during initialnetwork selection.

In Example 4, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 1-3 are optionallystored under a WLANSP sub-tree of the ANDSF MO.

In Example 5, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 1-4 are optionallystored separately from an ISMP and an ISRP.

In Example 6, the HS2.0 parameters of Examples 1-5 are optionallyobtained using ANQP.

In Example 7, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 1-6 can optionallyinclude preferred service provider policies.

In Example 8, the preferred service provider policies of Example 7 canoptionally include a policy based on an NAI realm.

Example 9 is a UE configured to communicate with one or more of an eNBin a 3GPP LTE or LTE-A network and a WLAN. The UE is configured todiscover a set of available WLAN access networks. The UE is configuredto prioritize the available WLAN access networks based on WLAN selectionpolicies within a single rule set. The rule set includes WLAN selectionpolicies based on HS2.0 parameters. The UE is configured to select aWLAN access network with a highest priority.

In Example 10, the WLAN selection policies of Example 9 can optionallyinclude one or more of a policy based on an HS2.0 location parameter, apolicy based on an HS2.0 venue parameter, a policy based on an HS2.0access network type parameter, and a policy based on an HS2.0 backhaulload parameter.

In Example 11, discovering the set of available WLAN access networks inExamples 9-10 can optionally include discovering HS2.0 parameters usingaccess network query protocol (ANQP).

In Example 12, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 9-11 canoptionally include preferred service provider policies.

In Example 13, the UE of Examples 9-12 is optionally further configuredto determine an active WLAN selection policy and the UE optionallyprioritizes the available WLAN access networks based on the active WLANselection policy.

In Example 14, the UE of Examples 9-13 can be optionally configured toapply one of an ISRP and an ISMP after prioritizing the available WLANaccess networks.

Example 15 is a method for WLAN network selection. The method includesprioritizing available WLAN access networks based on a consolidatedWLANSP within a single MO. The MO includes a PSPL and aPreferVplmnWlans. The method includes selecting a highest priority WLANaccess network that interworks with a most preferred service provider inone of the PSPL and the PreferVplmnWlans. The method includesauthenticating using a NAI based on one of the PSPL and thePreferVplmnWlans. The method further includes communicating 3GPP IPtraffic over the selected WLAN access network.

In Example 16, the PSPL of Example 15 can optionally include one or moreof an operator controlled list, a user controlled list, and a HPLMNcontrolled list.

In Example 17, selecting the highest priority WLAN of Examples 15-16 canoptionally include, in response to roaming to a preferred VPLMN,selecting the highest priority WLAN access network that interworks witha most preferred service provider in the PreferVplmnWlans.

In Example 18, authenticating in Examples 15-17 can optionally includeauthenticating using EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′ authentication.

In Example 19, the PSPL of Examples 15-18 can optionally enable WLANnetwork selection without a SSID.

Example 20 is a computer program product that includes acomputer-readable storage medium storing program code for causing one ormore processors to perform a method. The method includes storing anANDSF MO indicating network selection rules for a mobile wirelessdevice. The network selection rules include one or more service provideridentifiers indicating service provider preferences. The method includesestablishing communication with the mobile wireless device. The methodfurther includes synchronizing at least a portion of the ANDSF MO withthe mobile wireless device. The at least a portion of the ANDSF MOincludes the one or more service provider identifiers.

In Example 21, synchronizing the at least the portion of the ANDSF MO inExample 20 can optionally include synchronizing the one or more serviceprovider identifiers comprising an OUI.

In Example 22, the OUI of Example 21 can optionally include an OUIregistered with an IEEE registration authority.

In Example 23, synchronizing the at least the portion of the ANDSF MO inExamples 20-22 can optionally include synchronizing the one or moreservice provider identifiers include an NAI realm.

Example 24 is a method for selecting a WLAN access network. The methodincludes communicating over a 3GPP network and a non-cellular network.The method includes storing an ANDSF MO that includes WLAN selectionpolicies for network selection on the UE. The WLAN selection policiesinclude I-WLAN policies and HS2.0 parameters. The method furtherincludes selecting an available WLAN access network based on the WLANselection polices of the ANDSF MO.

In Example 25, the WLAN selection policies for network selection ofExample 24 can optionally include policies required for WLAN networkselection without referencing another MO.

In Example 26, selecting the WLAN access network of Examples 24-25 canoptionally include selecting the available WLAN access network duringinitial network selection.

In Example 27, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 24-26 areoptionally stored under a WLANSP sub-tree of the ANDSF MO.

In Example 28, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 24-27 areoptionally stored separately from an ISMP and an ISRP.

In Example 29, the HS2.0 parameters of Examples 24-28 are optionallyobtained using ANQP.

In Example 30, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 24-29 canoptionally include preferred service provider policies.

In Example 31, the preferred service provider policies of Example 30 canoptionally include a policy based on an NAI realm.

Example 32 is a method for selecting a WLAN access network. The methodincludes communicating with one or more of an eNB in a 3GPP LTE or LTE-Anetwork and a WLAN. The method includes discovering a set of availableWLAN access networks. The method includes prioritizing the availableWLAN access networks based on WLAN selection policies within a singlerule set. The rule set includes WLAN selection policies based on HS2.0parameters. The method includes selecting a WLAN access network with ahighest priority.

In Example 33, the WLAN selection policies of Example 32 can optionallyinclude one or more of a policy based on an HS2.0 location parameter, apolicy based on an HS2.0 venue parameter, a policy based on an HS2.0access network type parameter, and a policy based on an HS2.0 backhaulload parameter.

In Example 34, discovering the set of available WLAN access networks inExamples 32-33 can optionally include discovering HS2.0 parameters usingANQP.

In Example 35, the WLAN selection policies of Examples 32-34 canoptionally include preferred service provider policies.

In Example 36, the method of Examples 32-35 can optionally furtherinclude determining an active WLAN selection policy. Prioritizing canoptionally include prioritizing the available WLAN access networks basedon the active WLAN selection policy.

In Example 37, the method of Examples 32-36 can be optionally includeapplying one of an ISRP and an ISMP after prioritizing the availableWLAN access networks.

Example 38 is a method for WLAN network selection. The method includesprioritizing available WLAN access networks based on a consolidatedWLANSP within a single MO. The MO further includes a PSPL and aPreferVplmnWlans. The method includes selecting a highest priority WLANaccess network that interworks with a most preferred service provider inone of the PSPL and the PreferVplmnWlans. The method includesauthenticating using an NAI based on one of the PSPL and thePreferVplmnWlans. The method further includes communicating 3GPP IPtraffic over the selected WLAN access network.

In Example 39, the PSPL of Example 38 can optionally include one or moreof an operator controlled list, a user controlled list, and a HPLMNcontrolled list.

In Example 40, selecting the highest priority WLAN of Examples 38-39 canoptionally include, in response to roaming to a preferred VPLMN,selecting the highest priority WLAN access network that interworks witha most preferred service provider in the PreferVplmnWlans.

In Example 41, authenticating in Examples 38-40 can optionally includeauthenticating using EAP-AKA/EAP-AKA′ authentication.

In Example 42, the PSPL of Examples 38-41 can optionally enable WLANnetwork selection without a SSID.

Example 43 is a method for synchronizing an ANDSF MO. The methodincludes storing an ANDSF MO indicating network selection rules for amobile wireless device. The network selection rules include one or moreservice provider identifiers indicating service provider preferences.The method includes establishing communication with the mobile wirelessdevice. The method includes synchronizing at least a portion of theANDSF MO with the mobile wireless device. At least a portion of theANDSF MO comprises the one or more service provider identifiers.

In Example 44, synchronizing the at least the portion of the ANDSF MO inExample 43 can optionally include synchronizing the one or more serviceprovider identifiers comprising an OUI.

In Example 45, the OUI of Example 44 can optionally include an OUIregistered with an IEEE registration authority.

In Example 46, synchronizing the at least the portion of the ANDSF MO inExamples 43-45 can optionally include synchronizing the one or moreservice provider identifiers include an NAI realm.

Example 47 is an apparatus that includes means to perform a method inany of Examples 24-46.

Example 48 is a machine readable storage including machine-readableinstructions that, when executed, implement a method or realize anapparatus of any of Examples 24-47.

Various techniques, or certain aspects or portions thereof, may take theform of program code (i.e., instructions) embodied in tangible media,such as floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, hard drives, a non-transitorycomputer readable storage medium, or any other machine-readable storagemedium wherein, when the program code is loaded into and executed by amachine, such as a computer, the machine becomes an apparatus forpracticing the various techniques. In the case of program code executionon programmable computers, the computing device may include a processor,a storage medium readable by the processor (including volatile andnon-volatile memory and/or storage elements), at least one input device,and at least one output device. The volatile and non-volatile memoryand/or storage elements may be a RAM, EPROM, flash drive, optical drive,magnetic hard drive, or other medium for storing electronic data. TheeNB (or other base station) and UE (or other mobile station) may alsoinclude a transceiver component, a counter component, a processingcomponent, and/or a clock component or timer component. One or moreprograms that may implement or utilize the various techniques describedherein may use an application programming interface (API), reusablecontrols, and the like. Such programs may be implemented in a high-levelprocedural or object oriented programming language to communicate with acomputer system. However, the program(s) may be implemented in assemblyor machine language, if desired. In any case, the language may be acompiled or interpreted language, and combined with hardwareimplementations.

It should be understood that many of the functional units described inthis specification may be implemented as one or more components, whichis a term used to more particularly emphasize their implementationindependence. For example, a component may be implemented as a hardwarecircuit comprising custom VLSI circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelfsemiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discretecomponents. A component may also be implemented in programmable hardwaredevices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable arraylogic, programmable logic devices, or the like.

Components may also be implemented in software for execution by varioustypes of processors. An identified component of executable code may, forinstance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computerinstructions, which may, for instance, be organized as an object,procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identifiedcomponent need not be physically located together, but may comprisedisparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joinedlogically together, comprise the component and achieve the statedpurpose for the component.

Indeed, a component of executable code may be a single instruction, ormany instructions, and may even be distributed over several differentcode segments, among different programs, and across several memorydevices. Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustratedherein within components, and may be embodied in any suitable form andorganized within any suitable type of data structure. The operationaldata may be collected as a single data set, or may be distributed overdifferent locations including over different storage devices, and mayexist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system ornetwork. The components may be passive or active, including agentsoperable to perform desired functions.

Reference throughout this specification to “an example” means that aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connectionwith the example is included in at least one embodiment of the presentinvention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an example” in variousplaces throughout this specification are not necessarily all referringto the same embodiment.

As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositionalelements, and/or materials may be presented in a common list forconvenience. However, these lists should be construed as though eachmember of the list is individually identified as a separate and uniquemember. Thus, no individual member of such list should be construed as ade facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based ontheir presentation in a common group without indications to thecontrary. In addition, various embodiments and examples of the presentinvention may be referred to herein along with alternatives for thevarious components thereof. It is understood that such embodiments,examples, and alternatives are not to be construed as de factoequivalents of one another, but are to be considered as separate andautonomous representations of the present invention.

Although the foregoing has been described in some detail for purposes ofclarity, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications maybe made without departing from the principles thereof. It should benoted that there are many alternative ways of implementing both theprocesses and apparatuses described herein. Accordingly, the presentembodiments are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive, andthe invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but maybe modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims.

Those having skill in the art will appreciate that many changes may bemade to the details of the above-described embodiments without departingfrom the underlying principles of the invention. The scope of thepresent invention should, therefore, be determined only by the followingclaims.

1. An apparatus for a user equipment (UE), comprising: a memory deviceto store an access network discovery and selection function (ANDSF)management object (MO) corresponding to information in an ANDSF elementof a wireless wide area network (WWAN), the ANDSF MO comprising awireless local area network (WLAN) selection policy (WLANSP) including aset of rules for WLAN access network selection on the UE, a rule of theset of rules comprising: a validity condition to indicate when the ruleis valid; and one or more prioritized groups of WLAN selection criteria,wherein a first group has a higher priority than that of a second group,if any, in the one or more prioritized groups of WLAN selectioncriteria, and wherein at least the first group comprises one or morecriteria based on attributes or capabilities of a WLAN access networkeligible for selection; and one or more processors to: discoveravailable WLAN access networks; compare attributes or capabilities ofthe available WLAN access networks to the one or more prioritized groupsof WLAN selection criteria to generate a prioritized list of WLAN accessnetworks; and select a preferred WLAN access network from theprioritized list of WLAN access networks.